Does your virtual event spark joy? Keeping pace with the surge in virtual events, we consulted new ConventionPlanit.com supplier member Ben Corey, CEO and Lead Digital Entertainer with Stream Variety, for advice on livening up a virtual meeting. Ben had so much to share, in fact, that this is the first of a three-part series.

1. Eliminate extended speaker introductions.

Participants at streaming events can easily be distracted before traditional speaker bios are even delivered. Post bios online for those who may be interested and start with something unexpected or more personal instead. For example, speakers can begin by sharing something about themselves that is 100% true but sounds made up.

2. Focus on emotional connections from the first moment.

If your audience is pulling their hair out as they telework while homeschooling their kids, start there! Start exactly where your specific audience is, and share a related personal story to bring your audience closer, even though they are far away.

3. Engage participants upon arrival with sponsor-worthy Streamosphere.

As your audience arrives, captivate them with unexpected visual streaming entertainment. Create an atmosphere of anticipation before your speakers go live. While others may start a stream fumbling with cameras and lose half of their audience, look like a rock star by going live with something immediately awesome.

Ben Corey provides consulting and support to help you launch successful digital tradeshows, innovative online networking events, and conferences.  He provides a complete roster of sponsorable streaming entertainment.  Contact Ben Corey directly at Stream Variety to learn more.